4.6
(1382)
12,663
hikers
370
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Commondale traverse a landscape characterized by sweeping moorland, picturesque wooded valleys, and historical stone tracks within the North York Moors National Park. The area features two steep hills and views towards the Esk valley, offering varied terrain for walkers. Expansive moorland, such as Commondale Moor, includes prehistoric burial mounds, adding a historical dimension to the natural scenery. This region provides a diverse setting for accessible outdoor exploration.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(4)
54
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
20
hikers
6.84km
01:52
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
22
hikers
5.46km
01:40
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
6.15km
01:43
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
6
hikers
3.92km
01:03
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Gribdale Gate is a small, free, 24‑hour Forestry England car park on Dikes Lane near Great Ayton, offering around 40 spaces and direct access to Roseberry Topping, Captain Cook’s Monument, and Coate Moor
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Great views of this little green amphitheatre, showing a perfect cross‑section of a glacial valley, estate farmland, ancient woodland, and the rising escarpment beyond.
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Great views and early on a Sunday morning is best to beat the crowds. The obelisk is hollow and originally had a doorway you could walk through, before it was sealed during a 19th‑century restoration. A lightning strike in 1960 almost split the monument down the middle after the lightning conductor installed in 1895 rusted away. Earlier lightning strikes in the 19th century had already blown off the original doorway and obliterated the cast‑iron plaques. Fun fact - allegedly - the monument contains a hidden time capsule. When the foundation stone was laid in 1827, commemorative items were placed inside, including a portrait of Captain Cook and a glass plate etched with details of the event.
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Directly in front of the monument, take a stroll about 30-50 paces and you will have some very decent views of the area!
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You'll catch a glimpse of the gritstone crag Highcliff Nab from here on the path. The crag is very popular with rock climbers, so if the weather is good you can expect to watch them scaling the cliff.
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I tend to hike/trail run early (sometimes starting around 5am), but I passed through Danby mid-morning on a Saturday and the smell coming from the bakery was heavenly. All the excuse you need for adding Danby to your route!
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Impossible to miss this imposing and impressive building overlooking the village green.
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If you want to see Captain Cook’s Monument find a more direct route. This route took you up, across and down into Kildale village. I assume it then progressed upwards again but we gave it up at that point and walked back to the car. Disappointing.
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Commondale offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 130 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 370 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Commondale are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Cleveland Way Kildale Junction – Gribdale Gate Car Park loop from Percy Cross is a popular easy circular route, offering scenic views over 6.3 km.
Easy hikes around Commondale feature a diverse range of landscapes. You'll traverse sweeping moorland, picturesque wooded valleys, and historical stone tracks. The area is characterized by two steep hills, offering views towards the Esk valley, and expansive moorland like Commondale Moor, which even includes prehistoric burial mounds.
Many easy trails in Commondale are suitable for families. Routes like the Danby Park Woodland – Danby Village Green loop from Castleton Moor, which is 6.8 km long, lead through gentle wooded areas and open countryside, making them enjoyable for all ages. Always check the route details for specific terrain and elevation to ensure it meets your family's needs.
Most easy hiking trails in the North York Moors National Park, including those around Commondale, are dog-friendly. However, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially when crossing farmland or during ground-nesting bird season (March to July) on the open moorland. Always follow the Countryside Code.
Even on easy hikes, you can enjoy significant landmarks and viewpoints. The View of Highcliff Nab – Highcliff Nab loop from Guisborough offers excellent views towards Highcliff Nab. Other notable features in the wider area include the distinctive Roseberry Topping Summit and the ancient Wainstones rock formations, though reaching their summits might involve more challenging sections.
While the immediate Commondale easy routes might not directly feature large waterfalls, the wider region of the North York Moors has several water features. Scaling Reservoir offers a tranquil setting for walks, and Hob Hole Beck near Westerdale provides a serene spot. Some routes may follow streams through wooded valleys.
The easy trails in Commondale are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1,300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the varied terrain, the peaceful moorland, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and accessible outdoor experience.
Yes, Commondale village itself has local amenities like the Cleveland Inn, which can serve as a convenient break point for walkers. Additionally, routes like the Danby Park Woodland – Danby Bakery and Tea Shop loop from Castleton Moor are designed to pass by places where you can grab refreshments, such as the Danby Bakery and Tea Shop.
Easy hikes around Commondale generally range from 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. For instance, the Commondale railway station – Commondale War Memorial loop from Commondale, covering 6.1 km, typically takes about 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering a good duration for a relaxed outing.
The North York Moors, including Commondale, are beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer offers long daylight hours, and autumn showcases stunning heather blooms and rich foliage. Even in winter, crisp, clear days can be ideal for easy hikes, though conditions can be more challenging. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.


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